Four foods to aid in mental wellness

The human body is wonderful, and the human brain is much more so. Put them together, and they will usually be able to help one another stay healthy and happy. The idea that eating good food can help with mental health is proof of this. In other words, there are certain meals that will raise your happiness and make you feel good, which will increase the synthesis of serotonin, a hormone that is responsible (in part) for keeping depression at bay.

If you think eating healthily to improve your mental health is a good idea, what foods should you consume to make sure it happens? Keep reading to learn about some of the top options to include in your diet from now on. 

 

Photo by Oksana D from Pexels

 

Walnuts

Have you ever noticed how walnuts resemble little brains? It may be a coincidence, but the fact is that this is a great hint for discovering a tasty type of food that promotes mental health. Walnuts are a delightful snack on their own or when mixed with other meals (for example, in a salad or, for special occasions, in a cake), but they are also widely recognized for being high in antioxidants.

Antioxidants reduce the amount of oxidation in the body and the brain. This means your cells are significantly more shielded from 'free radicals.' Free radicals have been demonstrated to have a harmful influence, such as raising the risk of getting heart disease and cancer. The safer you are from them, the better, and walnuts will help. 

 

Yogurt

Yogurt has long been used as a remedy for a number of diseases, and it is well recognized for its ability to soothe troubled stomachs. The health advantages are amplified if the yogurt you're eating includes probiotics, which improve the digestive system.

But what about your mental health? Can yogurt help with this? The answer is yes. There is a direct relationship between the brain and the stomach, and when the digestive system is functioning properly, individuals experience less depression and anxiety. It may even reduce stress. Of course, yogurt will not totally 'cure' depression, so it is always a good idea to seek professional care for the most severe instances. 

 

Tomatoes 

Studies have shown that tomatoes, unlike many other fruits and vegetables when eaten on a regular basis, lower the risk of depression by fifty-two percent. The research also found that those who ate tomatoes two to six times per week were forty-six percent less likely to develop depression than those who ate them less than once per week.

According to the findings of this research, a tomato-rich diet may be advantageous in the avoidance of depressive symptoms. If you're not fond of tomatoes on their own, don't worry; they are highly versatile and can be used in many different recipes, including a delicious tomato bisque soup recipe that will make you feel great. 

 

Oily Fish

You've undoubtedly heard that fish is considered 'brain food' and that this notion has persisted for decades, if not centuries. This is because fish (particularly oily fish) contain a substance known as DHA. This is an omega-3 fatty acid, and it has been shown to improve memory in both the long and short term.

Eating a sufficient quantity of omega-3 fatty acids can improve your general mental health, especially if you suffer from anxiety. The good news is that if you don't like fish, as some people do, you can take these beneficial omega-3 fatty acids as a supplement and get the same results.

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This post was written with the Life According to Steph Audience in mind. If you are struggling with mental health issues, please consult a doctor or therapist. If you are unsure of how to find one call (800) 662-4357. SAMHSA runs a 24-hour mental health hotline that provides education, support, and connections to treatment. It also offers an online Behavioral Health Treatment Locator to help you find suitable behavioral health treatment programs.